Harley Fuel Elbow Replacement

The stock Harley fuel elbow found on CV carburetors has long been known to be the achilles heel of this carb. The inlet is not only restrictive but made of molded plastic which breaks easily.

The plastic fuel inlet can crack and leak when removing the original crimp clamp or if over tightened. Also the manner in which the plastic elbow is formed onto a brass insert restricts flow.

If you have ever wanted to replace the fuel inlet and increase flow to your CV carburetor read on.

In order to remove the original fuel inlet you must first break off the plastic molded elbow. Don't be shy, get out your favorite hammer or pliers and simply snap the plastic portion off of the carb. It is important to first note the angle/position of the original elbow so the fuel line is routed correctly when reinstalling a new elbow.

Once the plastic is removed only the brass inner portion of the elbow will remain. Some have had luck pulling this piece out with vise grips and brute stength, but more often than not this only results in the brass piece spining endlessly. Below is listed the tools and technique for pulling the fuel elbow insert with ease.

Basic tools required:

1. Wrench or pliers
2. 1/4"-20 thread tap
3. 1/4" x 3" long machine screw
4. 1/4"-20 nut
5. 1-1/4" fender washer (min 1/4" hole)
6. 3/8" x 2" pipe nipple or deep socket
7. Replacement inlet elbow.

The thread tap and machine screw can be found at any home improvement or hardware store.

CAUTION: Never Heat a Carburetor to Remove or Loosen Parts!

Fuel elbow removal tools

Using a 1/4"-20 tap and T-handle, begin twisting the tap clockwise into the brass stub tapping threads approximately 1/4" in. Tapping threads all the way through is not necessary as you only need enough for the screw to grab while pulling the old piece out. To prevent excess brass particles from falling back into the carburetor it is advised to hold the carb with the inlet piece facing down so that particles fall away rather than being pushed into the float bowl while tapping.

Remove all brass filings/particles after tapping and before continuing.

Tapping the brass stub

Assemble the puller. Place the pipe nipple (or deep socket) over the brass stub. Thread the nut onto the 3" screw up to the screw head, then pass the screw through the fender washer. Insert the screw/nut/washer assembly through the pipe nipple or deep socket and thread the screw end a few turns into the tapped brass piece. You only need to thread in enough to grab.

With a wrench begin to turn the nut down (clockwise) forcing the screw to lift the brass piece out. It may be easier to hold the screw at the same time with a srewdriver. Once the piece begins to move it will pull out like butter.

Pull the old fuel inlet stub

Remove the pipe nipple, it may be wedged onto the carburetor. Thoroughly clean the fuel insert passage to make sure it is free of any brass filings. Soapy water will wash away any fine particles and not harm the internal parts. Be sure the carburetor is clean and dry.

Installing the new fuel elbow will vary depending upon brand or type. Harley dealers sell both an OEM and brass inlets that can be pressed in. Some catalogs carry an OEM replacement inlet but it has the same plastic elbow (not recommended), while others sell a brass inlet made from a 2-piece design (also not recommended). CV Performance recommends the CVP Fuel Max Inlet made from a single solid piece of brass which is both leak-proof and can improve flow by more than 40% over some other models when used with larger 5/16" fuel line.

Installing the new inlet elbow

If installing a solid brass or CVP inlet and a press is not available simply tap the inlet into the carburetor with a small mallet. You may also place a piece of wood over the elbow and tap in with a regular hammer. The smooth end presses into the carb and the barbed end is meant to grip the fuel hose.

The brass inlet will self-seal when it is pressed in as long as the carburetor inlet passage is free of debris and not damaged or cracked. A thin layer of blue locktite around the fitting to help seal but care should be taken not to allow any to drip back into the fuel passage as it will damage the rubber tip on the float needle (plunger).

Note that while working on the carburetor or any fuel system, care should be taken to keep away from any open flame or heat source. NEVER try to loosen carburetor parts using heat.

Replacing the Harley fuel elbow can help guarantee a leak free carburetor, and if installing a hi-flow CVP Fuel Max Inlet also provide increased flow.

Consult your factory service manual for full instructions. Installer is responsible for following all safety precautions outlined in the factory service manual. The above instructions are provided as a basic guide and assumes no liability for any damages or injury. Never work on a carburetor or related fuel system in the presence of an open flame or heat source. If unsure of any procedure please consult a trained motorcycle mechanic or other professional.

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